Melissa Meyer

A woman in a white wedding gown leans down to embrace her husband who is dressed in a white dress shirt and grey suit vest, seated in a wheelchair, and holding a bouquet of purple flowers. They are outside on a stretch of green lawn on a sunny day.

I am a newlywed who is on disability due to PTSD, depression, and chronic migraines. I also have fibromyalgia, and I’m a caregiver to my father-in-law. I am a daughter, sister, aunt, and friend.

As you can see from my photo, my husband has visible disabilities. While I’d love to participate in a march in person, I have to be mindful of the amount of energy it takes and how much pain I would be in for days after. Not only do my physical limitations hinder my ability to march, but my anxiety also impacts it. The large crowds are overwhelming for me. I am marching here because I need to continue my Medicare coverage. It is the best mental health coverage I have ever had. The current administration’s threat to privatize it is frightening. My husband and I both need coverage for preexisting conditions. We both understand how important the ACA is and accessibility is. These are all reasons I march.